Landmark study reveals widespread racism in Australian universities

A landmark Australian study published Monday has exposed systemic racism across the nation's higher education sector, finding that nearly 79% of university staff and students have experienced indirect racism. The report, "Respect at Uni: Study into Antisemitism, Islamophobia, Racism and the Experience of First Nations People," surveyed more than 75,000 participants across 42 institutions, making it the largest investigation of its kind in Australia.

Direct Discrimination and Targeted Groups

The study found 14.9% of respondents experienced direct interpersonal racism, with one in five academic staff reporting being directly targeted. International students faced the highest rates, with three in four reporting indirect racism. The report documented spikes in racist incidents during periods of social tension, including the COVID-19 pandemic—with Chinese-background students reporting increased harassment—and Israel's war on Gaza.

Voices from the Frontline

A Middle Eastern staff member quoted in the report stated: "After 15 years in universities, I've never seen it worse... the fear around expressing views if you're from the Middle East is overwhelming." A Jewish student added: "I'd encountered antisemitism before, but I had never been scared to be Jewish. In university, I frequently feel the need to hide my religion."

Political Reaction and Criticism

Greens deputy leader Senator Mehreen Faruqi, of Pakistani origin, condemned the government's response: "This report may come as a shock to those who don't experience racism, but for the rest of us, it is business as usual." She accused the Albanese government of "gaslighting and dismissing anti-Palestinian racism" during Israel's Gaza genocide.

Structural Roots and Recommendations

The report traces racism to historical foundations, noting many universities were established during colonial times, predating the abolition of the White Australia Policy. Among First Nations respondents, 81% reported experiencing racism. Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman stated racism is embedded in governance, policies, and curricula. The report's 47 recommendations include a national anti-racism framework, inclusive teaching, and robust complaint mechanisms—though only 6% of those experiencing direct racism currently file complaints, with most dissatisfied with outcomes.